OAAS News – South Mountain Fair
~ August 15th to 18th, 2024 ~
South Mountain Fair: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Fun
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of South Mountain, the South Mountain Fair is a beloved annual event that beckons locals and visitors alike to come together for four days of wholesome entertainment, cultural festivities, and agricultural showcases. From August 15th to August 18th, 2024, this vibrant celebration promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
At the heart of the South Mountain Fair lies a deep-rooted appreciation for community spirit and rural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of local culture through a diverse array of activities and attractions. From livestock exhibitions showcasing the finest breeds of cattle, sheep, and poultry to thrilling tractor pulls that test the strength and skill of competitors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the fair is the vibrant carnival atmosphere that fills the air with laughter and excitement. Thrill-seekers can indulge in a whirlwind of exhilarating rides and games, while families can create lasting memories together as they explore the bustling midway filled with delicious treats and festive entertainment.
For those with a taste for tradition, the South Mountain Fair offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage through its charming displays of local produce, homemade crafts, and traditional artisanal goods. Visitors can stroll through the bustling market stalls, chat with local farmers and artisans, and sample an array of homemade jams, preserves, and baked goods that showcase the bounty of the land.
Music lovers are also in for a treat, with live performances by talented local musicians and bands adding to the festive ambiance. From toe-tapping bluegrass tunes to soul-stirring folk melodies, the sounds of South Mountain resonate throughout the fairgrounds, creating a soundtrack that perfectly complements the joyful atmosphere.
But perhaps the most enduring appeal of the South Mountain Fair lies in its ability to bring people together from all walks of life. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the warmth and hospitality of the community are palpable, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection that lingers long after the fair has ended.
As the sun sets on another magical day at the South Mountain Fair, attendees depart with hearts full of cherished memories and anticipation for the festivities yet to come. For four days each August, this beloved tradition serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of community, culture, and fun that defines life in South Mountain.
History of Agricultural Fairs
Fairs are almost as old as recorded history. There were two types of ancient fairs: trade shows and festivals. From the biblical “Fairs of Tyre” to Sturbridge Fair in medieval England, fairs were used as market places and carnivals. In the 1700’s the British crossed the agricultural improvement society with the traditional trade fair/carnival and agricultural fairs were born.
These agricultural fairs were transplanted to the colonies by the earliest British settlers. The concept of fairs soon flourished in agrarian North America. In Canada, the first agricultural society was formed in 1765 in Nova Scotia. Ontario followed suit in 1792 with the Agricultural Society of Upper Canada based at Niagara on the Lake. From the Ontario strongholds, the concept of agricultural fairs spread west with the first settlers.
After a few false starts, the system of agricultural societies and their fairs spread all over Ontario in the 1800’s. They were organized by county and township and at one time numbered over 500 in Ontario alone. While agricultural societies used many methods (of varying success) to improve agriculture and the rural lifestyle, they’re most enduring and endearing legacy was the agricultural fair. Industrial exhibitions and festivals came and went, but the fairs just carried on. Fairs soon became an ingrained part of Ontario’s (and indeed Canada’s) culture. They still are, in our society.
Ontario Fairs have changed since their inception, but they still carry on their mandate of promoting agriculture and the rural lifestyle.
Want to see modern tradition meet the modern world? Attend a fair!
Click HERE to visit the South Mountain Fair
